PgCert Counselling Studies at University of Edinburgh

Programme overview

Our Counselling programmes aim to develop critically reflective, ethically aware practitioners, founded on a dialogue between person-centred and psychodynamic approaches. They are part-time and emphasise practice, including counselling placements and close supervision. The PgCert is the one-year part-time certificate award.

What you will study

Teaching combines experiential group work, counselling practice, supervision of practice, theory seminars, independent study and mentorship. Assessment includes essays, seminar presentations, self and peer assessments, placement-based assessment, a professional portfolio and (for relevant awards) a dissertation. The first placement starts in Semester 2 of Year 2 once readiness is assessed. Programme structure changes from 2028/29 while remaining aligned with COSCA standards.

Career pathways

The Postgraduate Certificate in Counselling Studies enhances career prospects in fields that use listening skills, such as healthcare, social work or education, and is a foundation for further specialist therapeutic training in the UK or abroad.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Programme (2027-28 entry): UK 2:1 honours degree or international equivalent, with a personal statement demonstrating motivation and understanding of counselling. A UK 2:2 with a strong personal statement and relevant experience or references may be considered, as may professional qualifications or experience (contact the team first). Students are subject to the University's Fitness to Practise policies, and progression from the first year requires a written self-assessment, a reference and an oral assessment of readiness. Application rounds: Round 1 apply by 14 December 2026; Round 2 apply by 31 May 2027. English language (all applicants, including UK nationals): IELTS Academic 6.5 overall with at least 6.0 in each component; TOEFL iBT (from 21 January 2026) 4.5 overall with at least 4.5 in each component; C1 Advanced/C2 Proficiency 176 overall with at least 169 in each component.

GBP 6,090 a year (2027/28). Year 1 fee for MCouns, PgDip and PgCert Counselling (part-time), all students; schedule is Year 2 GBP 12,180, Year 3 GBP 10,150, Year 4 GBP 8,120 Source

Intake: September 2027

Duration: 1 year part-time

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